Artifacts in the dust: the tangible remains of everyday life at Topaz
Protecting Block 22
Artifacts and objects tell stories. You can help preserve these stories by making sure that the artifacts and objects found there, STAY there. Where an artifact is found helps archaeologists learn more about the lives of those who lived there.
In June 2021 professional archaeologists conducted a detailed archaeological survey in portions of Block 22. This block is regularly used as a site for guided walking tours for school groups and other visitors. The archaeological project’s goals were to document areas of Block 22 visited frequently during tours and develop a monitoring plan to observe and document natural and manmade disturbance to the site. The archaeological work, funded in part by a grant from the Great Basin National Heritage Area, contributes to the Topaz Museum’s continued efforts to combat the vandalism and looting that constantly plague the site, as well as the preservation of the artifacts and features that help tell the stories of individuals who lived there.
A repurposed wire hanger. Incarcerees got creative with the materials they had to create new items. Some were functional, some were decorative. This was found near a garden. What do you think it was used for?
Holes were punched into tin can lids to turn them into shakers and daikon shredders. What other uses could they have?
Small, forgotten objects are the tangible remains of everyday life at Topaz.
A wooden post is all that remains of what was once an entryway garden. Many incarcerees transformed the Topaz desert landscape with gardens that they designed and maintained. They ranged from simple and modest ones to large, elaborate ones that even included ponds.